Renal Denervation Treatment: catheter treatment, radiofrequency waves, catheterisation – Doctor

Renal Denervation - Treatments

Catheter-based renal denervation is currently available to treat patients whose blood pressure cannot be brought down despite multiple medications at large doses. This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency waves to destroy the overactive sympathetic nerves running along the renal arteries which play a role in causing high blood pressure.

In patients with a systolic BP of greater than 160mmHg and taking at least 3 medications, some studies have demonstrated that this new technique can reduce blood pressure in certain patients when checked six months after the procedure.

This technology is still being developed and studies are ongoing, so that we may be able to identify which patients have the best chance of benefiting. If you think that your blood pressure control is still not well controlled despite lifestyle changes and medications, please discuss with your doctor if this technology may potentially improve your condition.

Click here for more information on renal denervation:

Surgery for stubborn hypertension (The Straits Times, Mind Your Body)